Breakspear House – Harefield

Breakspear House is a truly magnificent 17th century Grade I listed manor house, which has undergone a detailed restoration.

Formally the Breakspear family estate in the 13th century and home to W.S Gilbert by the end of the 19th Century. It was then acquired commercially in 1956 as a retirement home. Sadly by 1987 it lay abandon, derelict and vandalised.

Employing specialist companies and master craftsman, Bowman’s secured the contract for the leaded lights and stained glass restoration. Graded buildings ordinarily a huge undertaking, Breakspear House was extensive as the vandalism included broken glass, leading and the frames in the majority of the 2000 panes. Work included but not limited too:

Repairing the stained glass, some of which dates from the 16th century

Sash windows, many of which were added in the 1770s, have been repaired and re-balanced

Leaded lights of the crittall windows repaired with custom-made glass

The two double-storey bays on the southern side have been completely refurbished. These were added in c.1840 and are considered to be one of the finest features of the house

By using time-honoured methods and traditional materials, we have respected the character and history of the house and retained much of its aura. Beautifully restored, it is set in acres of ancient woodland and gardens.